The Basketball Tournament (TBT) will be back this summer

The NBA is still working on its plans to complete the season, but basketball will be back this summer thanks to The Basketball Tournament (TBT). Today, the TBT announced its health and safety plan for the 2020 event, which will feature 24 teams playing at a single location over ten days this summer, date still to be determined.

“After reviewing all available science and data, working with experts, and receiving support from our partners, we’ve devised a plan we are confident protects the health and safety of our participants and staff to the greatest extent possible,” said Jon Mugar, Founder/CEO. “At the forefront is our single-elimination format, ability to test and quarantine the field and keep teams separate at all times. We look forward to hosting an incredible group of teams and crowning a champion this summer.”

Here is the five-part health and safety plan, which was devised through consultation with health experts, epidemiologists and TBT participants:

Over 114 teams have applied for the 2020 TBT so far including returning champion Carmen’s Crew (Ohio State Alumni), the AfterShocks (Wichita State Alumni), Best Virginia (West Virginia Alumni), Boeheim’s Army (Syracuse Alumni), Red Scare (Dayton Alumni), as well as teams from Purdue, Illinois, Tennessee, and Oklahoma State. No word yet if the Bluegrass Boys, Kentucky’s alumni team, or DeMarcus Cousins’ team, Loyalty is Love, will take part.

The 24-team field will be announced in June. The tournament will once again feature the popular Elam Ending, which eliminates the game clock after a certain point and features teams playing towards a target score.

[TBT]